MEMORANDUM

We are responding to some of the questions that have been raised related to completing the FY09 ARRA-SFSF grant application:

1. In order to expedite the upload process, anyone with access to the Sped File Exchange (this is where the circuit breaker files are located) now has access to the ARRA-SFSF Drop Box.

2. Before submitting the file, rename it by appending the district's 4 digit ORG code to the end of the filename separated by an underscore; for example, Abington's filename will be 09sfsf_0001.xls.

3. If the district intends to use ARRA-SFSF funds to pay for out-of-district tuitions, including special education tuitions and non-member vocational tuitions, enter the amount on the Budget Pages under Contractual Services-Other. Under the rates column, enter "tuitions" to describe the intended use of the funds.

4. In the absence of clear guidance from the U.S. Department of Education, ESE is advising districts not to use ARRA-SFSF funds to cover utility costs.

We are receiving a stream of questions about the FY09 SFSF grant application. As a result, this Thursday, May 21 at noon , we will be answering questions related to the SFSF grant application during the MASBO/ESE Teleconference.

We would appreciate it if you could send your questions in advance to the following address: SBS@doe.mass.edu. We will answer all questions submitted before the teleconference and provide an opportunity for districts to ask follow-up questions. More details to follow.

For more pressing questions or issues of concern please contact Jeff Wulfson (jwulfson@doe.mass.edu, 781-338-6500) or Rob O'Donnell (rodonnell@doe.mass.edu, 781-338-3116).

Thank you.